Hunter teachers to walk off the job as almost three-quarters reconsider career

BY DAKOTA TAIT

NSW Teachers Federation members across the Hunter will join their colleagues to walk off the job next Wednesday.

It's just a week after Term 2 started.

They've also been permitted to leave the classroom if Government MP's visit their school grounds, and won't adopt new Government policies and initiatives in the classroom.

The union's calling for better pay and improved working conditions, especially as the country records its highest inflation rate in 20 years.

It's understood, while the union has been in talks with the State Government, the Premier's failed to address members' concerns over uncompetitive salaries and scrapping a 2.5 percent salary cap.

It comes as a new poll of Newcastle teachers found almost three-quarters said their workload is unmanageable and were reconsidering their position.

89 percent didn't feel their pay reflected their expertise and responsibilities, while 85 percent said staff shortages were very significant.

Department of Education data from last October has revealed, across the State electorates of Newcastle, Maitland, Wallsend, Charlestown, and Port Stephens, there were 114 vacant permanent teaching positions.

Farmers say they're not reaping the profits of Hunter shoppers' price pinch

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter shoppers are feeling the hip-pocket pain at the supermarket, but farmers are describing it as a rort on the part of supermarkets.

NSW Farmers is slamming the price gouging, saying producers haven't raised their own prices for produce.

While increased fuel costs do lead to slightly increased costs, the organisation claims the price hikes are beyond what's necessary.

Horticulture Committee Chair Guy Gaeta says people should know what they're paying for.

"It's been a rort now for at least 15 or 20 years," Mr Gaeta said. "It's just a rort."

"The prices change every day - they manipulate the people.

"And when I'm in town, and I hear people talking, 'Oh, capsicums $18 a kilo, we can't afford that,' and that's $170 per box. There's no farmers that get that kind of money."

The claims come as Australia records its highest inflation rate in 20 years. 

NSW Farmers says staff visited supermarkets and green grocers in Sydney last week, finding bananas, potatoes, oranges, tomatoes, and cucumbers sold at supermarkets were each at least a dollar a kilo cheaper at a green grocer less than 100 metres away.

Mushrooms, celery, and seasonal produce were also significantly cheaper, with onions less than half the price.

Mr Gaeta says the issue should be a hot topic on the campaign trail.

"Anthony Albanese and Scott Morrison should be doing something about it," Mr Gaeta said.

"It's part of the inflation, the problem that they've got now. You can't have people getting ripped off.

"Let's put the farmers aside. We can say 'no, we're not going to supply you'.

"But the consumer has to purchase food - it's an essential item."

There are calls for the next Federal Government to step in and reform competition law across Australia.

But in the meantime, Mr Gaeta says Hunter shoppers should consider going straight to the source.

"Go to the farmers markets, go to the small green grocer, and they'll do a lot better," Mr Gaeta said.

"[The supermarkets] will sell some things for as much as they can, and it's not right, it's just theoretically not right.

"When I see the prices in the supermarkets, I just burst up, I get really upset."

Hunter Set To Take Part In Trial Of Banned E-Scooters

 BY IAN CROUCH

A banned method of cheap, affordable transport could soon be allowed on the streets of Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

Up until now, electric scooters have been banned in NSW.

Wallsend MP, Sonia Hornery has been leading the charge to have the ban lifted, writing to the Minister for Active Transport, Rob Stokes on several occasions.

The minister has announced a community trail will be fast tracked and will start in July.

Councils will be invited to submit an expression of interest in taking part and Sonia Hornery says she'll be writing to Newcastle and Lake Macquarie Councils about their plans for taking part in the trial.

Rob Stokes says the government will ensure E-scooter regulations are sensible and appropriate to ensure the safety of riders and other road users.

Sonia Hornery says motorised scooters are an affordable, convenient as sustainable method of transport.

A trial of E-scooters is set to start in July Picture hobartcity.com.au

Newcastle pursuit suspect arrested at Morpeth

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A man who led police on a chase through several Newcastle suburbs on Tuesday has been arrested this week.

It's understood, the 21-year-old was arrested at Morpeth on Thursday morning. 

It's being alleged, a Lexus station wagon stolen from Merewether almost two weeks ago failed to stop after being directed by police in Charlestown on Tuesday afternoon.

The car was found abandoned at Jesmond shopping centre early that evening, though the driver and passenger were able to evade the police net.

Police allege on Wednesday, a woman was pulled from her car on her driveway in Blackalls Park. 

That stolen car was later found abandoned in Hamilton South.

The Wallsend man now faces 26 property and traffic offences, as well as breach of bail.

He's set to appear in Maitland Local Court on Friday.

Hunter farmers call for clearer commitment on net zero targets

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Farmers across the Hunter and Australia are calling on the next Federal Government to offer certainty the country will meet its net zero targets.

It comes as the Coalition faces internal dissent on the issue, with Queensland Senator Matt Canavan insisting the party isn't committed to the 2050 goal.

It's understood, the Nationals senator has been reprimanded by his colleagues.

But Farmers for Climate Action remains concerned, it's a sign of the path to come.

Alistair Tulloch, a fifth-generation grape grower at Tulloch Wines in the Hunter Valley, says the confusion is disappointing.

"On the ground, the effect of climate climate on agriculture is just profound," Mr Tulloch said.

"Our ability to consistently grow the food, or in my case, the grapes that end up as wine on the table, or vegetables in the supermarket, or meat in the butchery.

"These are all things that are becoming more unpredictable."

It's believed a strong climate policy and switch to renewables could create around 30,000 jobs in regional Australia.

Mr Tulloch says a lack of action won't just mean losing current jobs, but losing a way of life.

"We've been here growing grapes for almost 200 years in the Hunter Valley, and we plan to be here for another 200 years," Mr Tulloch said.

"We want to see that reflected in the sustainability of our industry - if there's a threat to that sustainability, then we want to see it addressed."

Newcastle Council launches free repair cafe

BY ANGIE DAVIES 

Newcastle Council has launched a new repair café at Lambton Library, operating on the final Saturday of every month.

The café aims to create a more sustainable community by teaching people new skills to fix broken or damaged items instead of throwing them away or replacing them. 

Councillor Margaret Wood says there is a huge unmet need within the local community to contribute to more sustainable outcomes. 

"This is a really practical way of people doing that, by bringing along their items, getting them fixed so they don't go to landfill and they don't have to buy a replacement item," Cr Wood said.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from local experts including repairers, the Newcastle Toy Library and Upcycle Newcastle. 

"The café aims to create a more sustainable community with a focus on recycling, repurposing and helping the community really meet that unmet need and giving them the skills where they can carry on doing some of these things at home," Cr Wood said.

The next event will be held on Saturday 30 April, focusing on repairs for toys, clothing and bikes.

Further events will be held in May for textiles and clothing, and June for furniture, small hand tools, clothing and toys. 

The events are free to attend and no booking is required. 

Bicycle repairer Nick Grinpukel Councillor Margaret Wood and City of Newcastle Library Partnerships Facilitator Christina Robberds At Lambton Library.

Elderly Man Faces Gaol Time Over Serious Crash At Salt Ash

 BY IAN CROUCH

An elderly man is facing possible gaol time over a crash at Salt Ash earlier this month which left six people in hospital.

On April 5, a Subaru sedan and a Honda SUV were involved in a head-on crash on Nelson Bay Road near Marsh Road.

A passenger in the SUV, an 80-year-old woman, was trapped before being released and flown to the John Hunter Hospital with serious leg injuries.

Five other people including a 78-year-old man driving the SUV and a 32-year-old man driving the sedan were also taken to hospital with minor injuries.

The 78-year-old was yesterday charged with dangerous and negligent driving occasioning grievous bodily harm which carries a maximum gaol term of 7 years.

The man was also charged with two counts of cause bodily harm by misconduct, negligent driving and not keep left of the dividing line.

He's been granted conditional bail to face Raymond Terrace Court on May 23.

Teenager facing 31 charges after investigation into Hunter break-ins

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A teenager faces 31 property-related charges across the Hunter and New England.  

The 14-year-old was arrested at a Tamworth home on Wednesday morning, after an investigation into break-ins and stolen motor vehicles across the Hunter Valley and Oxley Police Districts.  

The youth was taken to Tamworth Police Station and has been refused bail.  

He's due to face a Children's Court on Thursday. 

Hunter inmates to build houses for flood victims

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Cessnock Correctional Centre inmates have been commissioned to build 40 modular homes for flood victims in the State's north.  

The temporary houses will be built at the prison, using parts from former school classroom demountables.  

It's expected, they'll be built and delivered over the next few months.  

Hydrogen 'Super Hub' For Newcastle

 BY IAN CROUCH

Much has already been made of plans to create a hydrogen hub at the Port of Newcastle, but today (Thursday 28 April, 2022) Energy Minister Angus Taylor will announce further funding to create a Hunter Super Hydrogen Hub.

$41 million dollars will be added to the Newcastle Hydrogen project and a further $41 million will be added to Origin Energy's H2 Hub project, which the government estimates will create more than 2,300 jobs.

The government says national clean energy projects could directly support 16,000 jobs by 2050, along with a further 13,000 jobs in renewable energy construction.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison says the investment will unlock the Hunter's clean energy future.

 Energy Minister Angus Taylor

 

Maitland Magpies score $2 million in Federal funds for field upgrade

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Federal Government has committed $2 million for the Maitland FC Magpies, to upgrade their facilities at Cooks Square Park.

The Stage One works will see a half-size training pitch expanded to full-size, in hopes to double the number of competition games being played. 

It's understood, the club is searching for further money, for a new two-storey buildings with canteens, storerooms, and female changerooms. 

Maitland FC President Ray Watkins says it's reassuring to see spending right across the region.

"One of our key targets to be able to get the message out to all of the youth of Maitland," Mr Watkins said.

"They don't need to travel into Newcastle to get the best facilities available. They can come right here to Cooks Square Park and achieve all of the resources and the development needs."

Labor's also announced, if it wins the Federal Election in May, it will match the Commonwealth's commitment on the project.

Club President Ray Watkins, Liberal Candidate for Paterson Brooke Vitnell, Senator Jim Molan, and Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold.

Cease-to-pump rules scrapped for the Lower Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Cease-to-pump rules put forward by the State Government have been scrapped for the Lower Hunter, after farmers across the region raised the alarm, it could cripple agricultural activities.

The move would have restricted the amount of water that irrigators could draw from the Hunter River in summer, in hopes to safeguard the freshwater supply downstream and the health of the system.

Farmers voiced their concerns, saying crops wouldn't survive and measures are already in place to manage salinity and water usage.

Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell says the Water Minister has confirmed, the rules will not be included as part of a water-sharing plan in the Lower Hunter. 

Once it's set in stone in July, the plan will be in effect for ten years.

Mr Layzell says he's worked hard with the community, and is hoping to see the rules abandoned in the rest of the Hunter as well.

Manhunt Continues After Wild Pursuit Through Lake Macquarie And Newcastle

 BY IAN CROUCH

Two people remain on the run after leading police on a wild pursuit through Lake Macquarie and Newcastle suburbs.

Police say around 3.30pm on Tuesday officers tried to stop a Toyota Lexus at Charlestown and then chased the vehicle to Jesmond with dozens of police vehicles and the Polair helicopter involved in the pursuit.

The car was abandoned at the Jesmond Shopping Centre, with two people in the car running off.

Despite an intensive search, the pair could not be found, with police concluding the operation at about 8.00pm and the Lexus seized for forensic examination.

BREAKING! Woman Allegedly Caught High Range Drink Drive Twice Before Crashing At Ferodale

 BY IAN CROUCH

A Queensland woman is due to face court next month after allegedly being caught high range drink driving twice before crashing into a car at Ferodale overnight.

Police say the 28-year-old was arrested for high range drink driving at Coffs Harbour just after 1.30pm on Tuesday, where she was also charged with dangerous driving and had her licence suspended on the spot.

It's alleged she then drove her black BMW SUV south to Port Stephens where she collided with a car on Medowie Road at about 8.00pm.

Police say she returned an even higher alcohol reading than earlier in the day.

She's also been charged with refuse breath test, resist arrest and driving while suspended and has been granted strict conditional bail to face Raymond Terrace Court in May 9, 2022. 

Semi-Trailer Goes Up In Flames On M1 At Cooranbong

 BY IAN CROUCH

Southbound traffic on the M1 at Cooranbong is back to normal after a truck fire overnight.

An empty semi-trailer caught alight just after 9.30pm on Tuesday, about 2.5km south of the Freemans Drive overpass.

The truck driver managed to escape without injury.

Fire and Rescue and RFS crews took just under an hour to extinguish the fire, which gutted the cabin and the trailer.

A Hazmat crew from Newcastle was brought in to decant diesel from a ruptured fuel tank.

The salvage operation wrapped up just after 4.30am on Wednesday.

Police say it's likely the fire started in the engine bay. 

The cabin and trailer of the truck were destroyed in the fire Picture Toronto Fire & Rescue

80 people in Hunter hospitals as daily COVID updates draw to a close

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England Health District is caring for 80 COVID cases in hospital, with five people in intensive care.  

No one has passed away in the latest reporting period.  

It's not clear how many of the State's 9,849 cases are in the Hunter.

NSW Health says it will no longer provide an in-depth daily update on the figures.  

The Department will provide a statewide tally, however, though cases and deaths will not be broken down by health district. 

Dog Owners Urged to Vaccinate Pets Against Leptospirosis

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Pet owners around Lake Macquarie are being urged to monitor their cats and dogs for symptoms of leptospirosis. 

The call comes after a 12-week old puppy from Speers Point was diagnosed with the rare bacterial disease last week. 

The Belgian Shepherd pup was taken to Cardiff Vet Hospital, presenting symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea.

Cardiff vet Andrew Cornwell, said this is the first time the tropical disease has appeared in the Hunter region in decades. 

"Leptospirosis is a disease that dogs can contract through puddles contaminated with rat urine, either from drinking from the puddle or having their abrasions and cuts exposed to it. That's also the way people catch it as well, through abrasions and cuts on their legs being exposed to or contaminated with rat urine," he said. 

Mr Cornwell also noted vector-borne diseases' ability to thrive in warm, moist environments, particularly ponds, stagnant water and areas exposed to flooding.

"We believe it has probably occurred because of La Niña, where we've got a lot of water lying around and therefore its been a good opportunity for this bacteria to survive, but nonetheless, once it's in the environment, it's really going to take hot weather and a drought to get rid of it," Mr Cornwell said. 

Following an outbreak of leptospirosis in Sydney between 2017 and 2020, all 17 dogs infected with the disease died. 

Mr Cornwell is therefore urging all pet owners within a 3km radius of Speers Point to talk to their vet about getting their dogs vaccinated against the disease. He says the most affected suburbs will be Argenton, Warners Bay, Boolaroo, Booragul, Macquarie Hills and Teralba.  

While a vaccine is not a currently available for cats, Mr Cornwell said owners can protect their pets by instating effective pest control around the house. 

New planning controls to require Newcastle developments to be electric vehicle ready

BY DAKOTA TAIT

New developments in Newcastle could soon be required to be outfitted to be ready for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, as part of a proposed change to planning rules.

Council is set to discuss the plan at Tuesday night's meeting, with a public exhibition to follow over the next 28 days. 

Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk says it's a small investment, with a big impact.

"We know that in five to ten years, many garages across the city will be home to an electric vehicle, so it's really appropriate that our building standards adapt to allow buildings to be EV ready," Cr Adamczyk said.

"Through really simple actions, we're ensuring that the city is ready for the future."

The planning controls are the first of their kind in the city.

It would mean all new development over $200,000 and any development involving garages and parking will need to have the appropriate cabling and conduits. 

It's estimated to set developers back $50 to $300 per parking space, although it's still considered cheaper than retrofitting properties.

Cr Adamczyk says it's important the city gets ahead of the curve. 

"I think we're definitely leading the way," Cr Adamczyk said. 

"What we've done is look to other best practice cases, like Woollahra in New South Wales, who have had these controls in place for about seven years.

"We know that momentum is building towards an electric future, so it's really time for us to be leading this charge."

UPDATE! Crews Battling House Fire At Adamstown

 BY IAN CROUCH

Firefighters have extinguished a fierce house fire at Adamstown.

Crews were called to Park Avenue just after 4.30am on Tuesday to find the large, abandoned single storey home well alight.

It's understood the house is being used for storage and there was no-one in side when the fire broke out.

Newcastle Fire Command says 7 appliances and a Duty Commander are at the scene.

There were  also concerns for a neighbouring mechanics business, but crews managed to stop the fire from spreading.

Crews from Lambton, Newcastle, Merewether, Charlestown and a ladder platform from Newcastle had the fire extnguished by 6 o'clock.

EARLIER:

Firefighters are battling a house fire at Adamstown.

Crews were called to Park Avenue just after 4.30am on Tuesday to find the home well alight.

Newcastle Fire Command says 7 appliances and a Duty Commander are at the scene.

There are also concerns for neighbouring properties which are under threat.

At this stage, it's believed the house is unoccupied.

More to come.

Newcastle still on the cards for nuclear sub base

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Newcastle, Port Kembla, and Brisbane are now the only options being considered for a $10 billion nuclear submarine base.

The Department of Defence says no other ports will be included in a feasibility study, expected to be complete by the latter half of 2023.

Past reports ranked the three locations poorly, however.

An Australian Financial Review report earlier this week, stated Newcastle had emerged as the frontrunner.

The report also claimed the Government was considering if it would have to buy out the Chinese stake in the Port of Newcastle, but Defence says it hasn't undertaken any preparatory work.

Lake Macquarie man passes away as restrictions eased this evening

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter New England is again leading the health districts, with 2,105 new COVID cases today.

Sadly, a man in his 70s from Lake Macquarie has passed away with the virus.

The Health District is caring for 98 people in hospital, with two people in intensive care.

Isolation requirements for close contacts of COVID cases will also be ditched in NSW from 6pm this evening.

However, household contacts will need to do daily RAT tests, wear a mask indoors, and avoid high-risk settings and elderly and immunocompromised people.

Man treated by paramedics after yacht collision on Caves Beach rocks

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A man's managed to escape with his life after his yacht lost power and collided with rocks at Caves Beach.

Around 7pm on Thursday night, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by New South Wales Ambulance after reports of a yacht in distress in waters offshore.

It was reported that the sole male occupant of the vessel broadcasted a mayday call over the marine radio and called triple zero stating that the vessel had lost power and was close to shore. 

Upon arrival of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, the vessel was located 250 metres offshore from the rocks at Caves Beach. 

Due to the conditions, the vessel impacted the rocks shortly after grounding the vessel.

The sole occupant was able to abandon the vessel onto shore where police and paramedics were waiting.

The male was assessed by paramedics for minor cuts and abrasions.

Two new COVID deaths as Hunter New England again leads in new cases

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter New England has recorded 2,417 new COVID cases today, almost 400 cases more than the second-highest district.

Sadly, a woman in her 80s from Cessnock and a man in his 80s from Lake Macquarie have passed away with the virus.

91 patients are in hospital across the health district, with three people in intensive care.

Hunter's at-risk residents apprehensive as COVID rules dropped

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter's saying goodbye to isolation requirements for close contacts of COVID cases tomorrow, but not everyone in the community is welcoming the move. 

Business is praising the State Government's decision, with hopes it will ease the pressure on hospitality and retail grappling with staff shortages. 

But people living with disabilities and immunocompromised conditions have raised concern, it's too soon to lift the restrictions.

David Belcher, a peer organiser with Community Disability Alliance Hunter, says the pandemic is far from over.

"Again, it seems like the State Government is just glossing over the fact that's there still vulnerable people out in the community," Mr Belcher said.

"The general public should still be aware, that COVID's very, very real in our community, people are still dying, and there's high death rates of people with COVID since the pandemic started."

From 6pm on Friday, unless they have symptoms, close contacts won't need to spend seven days at home.

The scrapping of isolation rules does have caveats, however - they will need to do daily RAT tests, wear a mask indoors, and avoid high-risk settings and elderly and immunocompromised people.

But Mr Belcher says, despite the terms and conditions, it still leaves people with few options.

"It's all well and good for those without a pre-existing condition - you can just isolate until you feel safe and comfortable," Mr Belcher said.

"But the reality is for most people with disability, one, it's mentally not a great idea, and two, in a lot of circumstances it's actually not even capable, because people with disabilities may need support workers, or other types of support to come into their house."

It comes as Hunter New England continues to lead the health districts in the number of new cases across New South Wales.

Vaccine mandates for most workers and passenger caps on public transport are also set to soon be ditched.

Mr Belcher says the community should have been properly consulted before the move went ahead.

"What we should be looking at is a way where we can truly live with COVID in our community, where people are still feeling safe, where their needs and their desires to be a part of the community are respected," Mr Belcher said.

"That may mean using masks, it may mean isolating for a short period of time."

School students and climate protestors to block the Port of Newcastle

BY JORDAN REGNIS

School students from the School Strike for Climate and climate protest group Extinction Rebellion will lead a blockade of the Port of Newcastle this Sunday.

They're demanding an end to federal funding for fossil fuel industries, and instead, to invest the money into climate solutions, along with transition arrangements for coal workers and communities. 

The People's Occupation of the World's Biggest Coal Port event will take place at Horseshoe Beach between 8am and 3pm, where people from across the Hunter will enter the harbour and stop coal ships from moving throughout the day.

Organiser Zack Schofield says he'd love to see the community get involved.

"We will get some kayaks out and run a blockade across the shipping channel, to make sure the coal ships don't come into the port for the day," Mr Schofield said.

"This event is about getting out on the water and showing the government we care about our community."

Speeches and live music will also feature on the beach throughout the day. 

Image credit: Newcastle School Strike 4 Climate

Blue-green algae sparks red alert in the Hunter River

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Local Land Services is warning, the Hunter River upstream of Glenbawn Dam is at red alert, due to the presence of blue-green algae.  

Landowners are being advised to remove livestock from the foreshores.   

Other water users are advised to avoid all contact with the water.  

Recent inflows could have changed the conditions, but locals should wait for the advisory to be lifted.  

Isolation requirements dropped for COVID close contacts in the Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Isolation requirements for household contacts of COVID cases, are out the door for the Hunter and New South Wales.  

The NSW Premier made the announcement this morning.

Unless they have symptoms, close contacts won't need to spend seven days at home, though they will need to do daily RAT tests, wear a mask indoors, and avoid high-risk settings and elderly and immunocompromised people.

The changes are in force from 6pm on Friday.

Green transport stickers, most health mandates for businesses, and hotel quarantine are also being scrapped, though mandatory vaccination for workers will remain in some settings.  

Premier Dominic Perrottet says it's not the end of the pandemic, but an important step forward. 

Lake Macquarie woman the latest to pass away with COVID-19

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter New England has recorded 2,069 new COVID cases today.  

It's leading the health districts in new cases for another day running.  

Sadly, a woman in her 70s from Lake Macquarie has passed away with the virus.  

The Health District is caring for 84 people in hospital, with three cases in intensive care.  

Lake Macquarie man dies with COVID-19

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter New England has recorded 1,449 new COVID cases. 

It's topped the list of health districts, in the number of new cases, yet again.  

Sadly, a man in his 80s from Lake Macquarie has passed away with the virus.  

The health district is caring for 82 people in hospital, with two cases in intensive care.  

Man flown to Royal North Shore with spinal injuries after Salt Ash crash

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance early this morning to a report of a serious single vehicle motor vehicle accident at Salt Ash. 

NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived on scene and carried out initial treatment on a 21-year-old male driver before the arrival of the helicopter and Helicopter Critical Care Medical Team. 

The young man was released from the vehicle, suffering serious spinal injuries.

He was further stabilised, prior to being airlifted direct to Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney in a serious condition, for further specialist medical treatment.

Lake Macquarie woman passes away with COVID-19

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A Lake Macquarie woman in her 90s has passed away with COVID-19.

It comes as Hunter New England records 2,532 new COVID cases, again the highest total across all health districts.

The Health District is caring for 86 people in hospital, including one case in intensive care.

Election Race For Paterson And Hunter Heats Up: Joyce And Albanese Hit The Hunter

 BY IAN CROUCH

The race for the hotly contested seats of Paterson and Hunter ramps up today with Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce and Opposition leader Anthony Albanese making key announcements.

Barnaby Joyce will announce a Coalition pledge of $55 million to upgrade the terminal at Newcastle Airport to international standard.

It will provide for a new double-storey terminal building to cater for larger planes and keep domestic and international travellers separate.

Work is due to start in October to complement the $66 million upgrade of the runway, which is due to start this month.

The airport falls in the Paterson electorate.

The Nationals leader will also announce $56 million to ease congestion on Mandalong Road at Morisset after Labor committed $30 million to the project last month

Meanwhile, Anthony Albanese will announce Cessnock Hospital will host a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic if it wins government.

The hospital is in the heart of Hunter electorate

Cessnock is the first clinic named under Labor's $135 million four-year plan.

Labor holds the seat of Hunter by just 3 per cent, while Meryl Swanson holds Paterson for the ALP by a margin of 5 per cent.

Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce

 

Labor leader Anthony Albanese

Max McMahon Oval scores $3 million facelift for Rutherford athletes

BY JORDAN REGNIS

Max McMahon Oval in Rutherford has scored $3 million dollars from the Federal Government for a much-needed upgrade.

It comes after a push from Liberal Candidate for Paterson Brooke Vitnell.

The upgrade will include the knocking down of the clubhouse and building a new grandstand, change room facilities, canteen, timekeeping room, and social meeting room. 

The oval currently has a limited number of facilities but is used by local primary and high schools, the Maitland Saints AFL club, and the Rutherford Little Athletics Club.

Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold says it paves the way for the next generation of young athletes.

"When I was the age of these young boys, I was playing here," Cr Penfold said. 

"This was the facility, and now I've just had my 50th birthday, so this building has seen better days.

"We're ready to get going to deliver this facility, not just for the Maitland Saints, but for Rutherford Little Athletics, and for Rutherford Technology High School, and Rutherford Public School, and Wests Cricket Club.

"We have a great paddock here that certainly can be improved as well, but it's the size of the MCG."

Maitland Councillor Ben Mitchell, Paterson Candidate Brooke Vitnell, Minister Paul Fletcher, Mayor Philip Penfold, and Maitland Saints Chairman Dwayne Roy.

Air Race World Championship to hit the skies above Lake Macquarie

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Air Race World Championship is headed to Lake Macquarie, with a local date now pencilled in for the calendar in November.

The State Government's putting in $2.5 million to help the city host the Red Bull race, where current World Champion Matt Hall is currently based.

Mayor Kay Fraser says it's reassuring to see this sort of investment in the Hunter.

"The skies will be filled with all Air Race World Championship planes, and obviously the shores of Lake Macquarie will be filled with excited spectators," Cr Fraser said.

"It'll be absolutely fantastic for our city, great to boost our profile, and obviously it'll bring millions of people viewing the air race from all around the world."

The Championship hasn't been held since 2019 due to waning corporate interest, but it's understood a new promoter is backing the tour for 2022.

It's hoped the revival will be a chance to bring the series back and better than ever.

Cr Fraser says it'll be great to see the region on the world stage.

"It's really important, not only for Lake Macquarie, but for the Hunter," Cr Fraser said.

"It's making us to be a destination for people not only in Australia, but worldwide, so while we can showcase our beautiful lake, our beautiful beaches, and all the opportunities and the things that they can do here.

"It really ticks all the boxes for people who just want to come here, be involved in an event, watch an event, or just spend some time in Lake Macquarie."

Image credit: Air Race World Championship

Hunter trio charged over dark web drug supply syndicate

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Two men and a woman have been charged as part of investigations into a criminal syndicate allegedly involved in the online supply of prohibited drugs through the dark web. 

In May last year, detectives from the State Crime Command’s Cybercrime Squad established Strike Force Alaine to investigate the online supply of prohibited drugs in the Lake Macquarie area. 

Following extensive inquiries, strike force detectives executed search warrants at two properties at Swansea, and a storage facility at Caves Beach, from 4pm yesterday on Tuesday. 

Investigators were assisted by officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District and Northern Region Operation Support Group (OSG) throughout the operation. 

A man and woman, aged 47 and 42, were arrested at a home on Lakeside Drive at Swansea and taken to Belmont Police Station. 

A short time later, a 30-year-old man was arrested at a home on George Street and taken to Toronto Police Station. 

During subsequent searches, police located and seized more than 100 litres of THC-based chemicals, 15kg of lollipops believed to be laced with a prohibited drug, electronic devices, and other items relevant to investigations. 

All items seized will undergo further forensic examination. 

The older man and the woman were each charged with three counts of knowing supply psychoactive substance for human consumption, eight counts of supply prohibited drug more than indictable amount, knowingly deal with proceeds of crime, knowingly or recklessly direct criminal group assist crime, and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity. 

They were both refused bail to appear at Belmont Local Court on Wednesday. 

The younger man was charged with three counts of knowingly supply psychoactive substance for human consumption, eight counts of supply prohibited drug more than indictable amount, and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity. 

He was granted conditional bail to appear at Belmont Local Court next Wednesday. 

Police will allege in court that all three were involved in the supply and distribution of prohibited drugs on the dark web, including E-cigarettes which contained synthetic cannabinoids or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 

Cybercrime Squad Commander, Detective Acting Superintendent Gordon Arbinja, says police are well equipped to deal with anyone engaging in illicit activity on the dark web. 

“These arrests should serve as a warning to those using the internet to conceal criminal activity: your anonymity is not guaranteed, and you aren’t outside the reach of law enforcement,” Det A/Supt Arbinja said. 

“During the course of this investigation, we identified more than $1.6 million in cryptocurrency, which was derived from the sale of these drugs on the dark web, travel directly into the bank accounts of those arrested yesterday. 

“Cybercrime Squad investigators will continue to work closely with local police across the state to investigate any incidents of online drug supply and disrupt those activities."

UPDATE! Police launch public appeal for missing Lake Macquarie man

BY DAKOTA TAIT

 Kevin Bown has been found safe and well! 

Police were initially concerned for his welfare as he suffers from a medical condition, issuing a geo-target alert in the hope members of the public might see him. 

Police say the 70-year-old returned to the aged care facility at Bolton Point at about 2pm on Tuesday.

They've thanked the media and the public for their assistance.

EARLIER:-

Police are appealing to the public for assistance in locating a man missing from the Lake Macquarie area.

Kevin Bown was last seen at an aged care facility on The Ridgeway, Bolton Point, about 10.30am on Tuesday.

The 70-year-old was reported missing by staff and officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District immediately commenced inquiries into his whereabouts. 

Police and family hold concerns for Kevin’s welfare due to existing medical conditions. 

Kevin is described as being of Caucasian appearance, of large build, with grey hair. 

He was last seen wearing a grey shirt and was carrying a backpack and Woolworths shopping bag.

Kevin is known to frequent the Toronto area. 

Anyone with information about Kevin's whereabouts is urged to contact Toronto Police Station on 02 4088 1099 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Casual work emerging as Hunter hot topic on the campaign trail

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A new report from the country's peak union body has found, casual workers in the Hunter and Australia are earning, on average, $350 less a week than workers in full-time or part-time positions.

The Missing in Action on Secure Jobs report, released by the Australian Council of Trade Unions earlier this week, estimates around 4.15 million workers across the country are employed in insecure work, such as casual work, labour hire, employment in the gig economy, and rolling fixed-term contracts.

Polling data included in the report found 80.9 percent of insecure workers were dissatisfied with the current state of housing affordability, and 69.4 percent were dissatisfied with the Government's failure to increase wages.

It's reignited the discussion around insecure work in the Hunter, just months after a Senate inquiry, which heard concerns from local mineworkers and staff at the University of Newcastle, among others.

The Resources Minister was in the Hunter on Monday, claiming a Labor-led government would be crippling for local jobs, especially in mining and energy.

But Hunter Workers Secretary Leigh Shears says the current government needs to step up itself.

"They don't want to talk about it," Mr Shears said. "Workers have been raising them for a long, long time.

"The Morrison Government has had plenty of opportunities to rectify to some of these problems, and identify problems in workforce employment, security, and wage increases, and they've chosen to ignore it or look the other way.

"It's all tactics, employment tactics, to drive down our wages and conditions across industries."

Hunter Workers is calling for job security to take centre stage on the campaign trail, with a focus on introducing 'Same Job, Same Pay' laws to level the playing field for labour hire workers.

There are also calls for the Government to introduce a clear definition of casual work, provide stronger rights for gig economy workers, limit the use of fixed-term contracts, and make it easier to transition to a permanent position.

Mr Shears says people shouldn't have to live with uncertainty or work more than one job just to get by.

"I suppose I'd encourage working people and people across our region to recall what's important to them, and have a look at the Government's record over the last nine years," Mr Shears said.

"And Scott Morrison's record, when he talks about jobs and when he talks about other sorts of things that sound and look good for working people in our communities, remember his record."

Hunter locals encouraged to roll up sleeves for Easter blood drive

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter's being urged to think about donating blood this Easter, with concern supplies of O negative blood are at their lowest levels in 12 months.

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood will be keeping the doors open at its Newcastle and Maitland donation centres on Good Friday, in a desperate push for donors with the rare type.

Spokesperson Jemma Falkenmire says it's especially concerning approaching the back-to-back Easter and ANZAC Day long weekends.

"It's the time that we always see spikes in demand for blood, and particularly the emergency blood type, which can be used in really high volumes in emergencies like road accidents or traumas," Ms Falkenmire said.

"We have only one-and-a-half day's supply across the state of that blood type."

While O negative makes up 15 percent of hospital orders, just seven percent of people have the blood type.

It's in high demand, because O negative can be used in situations where emergency responders don't know the patient's blood type.

Ms Falkenmire says while not everyone knows their blood type, donating is a great way to find out.

"There's that really amazing group of people in Newcastle, about 2.5 percent of the local population, who are in there every two to three weeks donating blood," Ms Falkenmire said.

"We don't need those kind of regular donations from everybody, but what we do need is more people just to spare an hour or two of their time to come in and help us out, when things are this low."

Red Cross Lifeblood's hoping to have 4,500 across the country book a spot before Easter Monday, and another 7,500 donors through to ANZAC Day.

Ms Falkenmire says it can be intimidating, but it's a rewarding experience.

"You get a health check before you donate," Ms Falkenmire said. 

"We've got free chocolate Easter eggs to give out to people who come in as well to sweeten the blood donation deal.

"And your blood is helping to save lives within as little as 48 hours, so it's well worth the time investment of an hour."

If you think you're eligible to give blood, visit lifeblood.com.au or call 13 14 95.

New Campus For Newcastle University

 BY IAN CROUCH

The University of Newcastle is set to expand, with a new campus planned for Gosford.

It comes after the university and the state government agreed to match federal funding of $18 million dollars for the project.

The campus will be built on a half hectare site on Mann Street which includes the location of a former Mitre 10 store.

Vic Chancellor Alex Zelinski says the campus will offer courses to support the development of a health, innovation and education, as well as law, business and cyber security.

"We are proud to have been on the Central Coast for more than 30 years at our Ourimbah Campus, educating more than 40,000 students during that time. Today marks the next stage of our partnership with the people of the Central Coast - a new campus that demonstrates a commitment to our young people and assurance that they will be able to complete their study without leaving the region," he said.

It's expected the campus will be open within 5 years, catering to an initial intake of 1000 students, growing to 3000 students a year within a decade.

Newcastle University Vice Chancellor Alex Zelinski

 

Hunter New England continues to hold the lead in new COVID cases

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter New England is leading the health districts in new COVID cases for another straight day.  

There's no new deaths in the Hunter, but a woman in her 90s from the Mid Coast has passed away.

The health district has recorded 1,832 new cases overnight.  

74 people are in hospital.  

Three are in intensive care.  

Seven days left to enrol to vote in the Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Federal Election's been called for May 21, meaning the Hunter only has seven days to make sure we're enrolled to vote.

All Australian citizens aged 18 years or older need to be signed up by 8pm on Monday 18 April.

We're also being reminded to check our address, in case we've moved house in the past few years.

If you're not correctly enrolled or fail to vote without a reason, you could face a $20 fine.  

You can check your status or enrol for the first time at www.aec.gov.au/enrol/.

Two people pass away with COVID in the Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter New England has again led the health districts in new COVID cases today, recording 3,128 cases in the latest reporting period.

Sadly, two people from the Hunter have passed away with the virus - a man in his 70s from Maitland, and a woman in her 80s from Lake Macquarie.

The Health District is caring for 66 people in hospital, with one person in intensive care.

Hunter woman allegedly caught drink-driving twice in two hours

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A Hunter woman faces a mid-range drink driving charge, after allegedly being caught behind twice in just a few hours.  

The 44-year-old woman was pulled over on Wednesday just after midday, allegedly returning a reading of 0.129 at Morisset Police Station.  

She was caught driving on a suspended license two hours later, with a ten-year-old girl in the car.  

The woman allegedly returned a reading of 0.121 at Toronto Police Station.

She's been granted conditional bail, to appear before Toronto Local Court next month.   

Teen In Custody After Police Pursuit On Newcastle Bypass

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police have recovered a ute allegedly involved in a pursuit on the Newcastle Bypass early Friday morning.

Police say the vehicle was stolen from Redhead overnight and was spotted at Windale just after 2.30am.

The car was pursued at speed up and down the bypass before it was dumped at Windale and three occupants in the vehicle fled.

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested for breach of bail and police believe he may have also been involved in the theft and pursuit of the car.

BREAKING! Elderly Man Threatened During Home Invasion At Birmingham Gardens

 BY IAN CROUCH

An elderly man has been threatened during an early-morning home invasion at Birmingham Gardens.

Police say four men broke into a home on Fussell Street just before 4.30am on Friday and threatened the 77-year-old male occupant with a hockey stick.

They took the man's car keys and fled in his gunmetal grey Kia Cerato.

The car has the registration number DZH 22M

Anyone who sees the car is urged to call triple zero immediately.

Police say the resident was shaken but otherwise unharmed.

UPDATE ! Fire Crews Called To Chemical Spill At Cameron Park

 BY IAN CROUCH

Workers at a Cameron Park freight depot and a neighbouring Australian Post Mail Centre have been given the all-clear to return to work following a chemical spill early Friday morning.

Fire crews were called to the Border Express depot on Stenhouse Drive at 3.45am after a forklift unloading a pallet of 30 drums of hydrochloric acid pierced two 15 litre drums.

Up to 20 people at the depot and the mail centre evacuated while Hazmat crews used water and soda ash to dilute the acid and make the area safe.

They wrapped up the operation just after 6.30am.

EARLIER
 

More than a dozen people have been evacuated following a chemical spill at Cameron Park early Friday morning.

Firefighters were called to the Border Express freight depot on Stenhouse Drive at 3.45am after staff noticed one of several 20 litre drums on a pallet had ruptured.

Newcastle Fire Command says five people at the depot and 10 others working at the neighbouring Australia Post mail centre evacuated as a precaution.

Newcastle Fire Command says a Hazmat crew has identified the chemical as being hydrochloric acid.

They've used water to dilute the acid and no-one's been injured.

Newcastle man in his 70s passes away with COVID-19

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter New England recorded 3,122 new cases, the leading number of COVID cases in health districts across the State.

Sadly, a man in his 70s from Newcastle has passed away with the virus.

The Health District is caring for 61 people in hospital, with two cases in intensive care.

Court awaiting mental health report for man charged over Shortland murder

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The man charged with the stabbing murder of a Shortland man, has undergone a psychiatric assessment. 

Zack Mavin remains on remand after the alleged murder of Bob Palmer at the Metro service station in December 2020.

The 25-year-old also faces an armed robbery charge, allegedly holding up the nearby 7-11 store with an "improvised explosive device".

Newcastle Local Court has heard, prosecutors have requested a four week adjournment.

They're awaiting a supplementary report from a psychiatrist, "in relation to a mental impairment defence". 

Works begin to clear asbestos from wool shed roof

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Work has started to remove asbestos from the roof of the surviving wool shed building at Wickham. 

Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp says a local company is undertaking the work.

It's expected to take a fortnight, weather permitting. 

Waste from the demolished buildings is also now being moved. 

They're using sprinklers to keep the dust out of the air.

Image credit: Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp.